Political commentator Onyango Okello has sparked debate online after sending a blunt message to Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, arguing that the youthful legislator could strengthen his political influence if he aligned with President William Ruto.
His remarks come amid growing speculation that Babu is among a new crop of politicians positioning themselves to succeed veteran opposition leader Raila Odinga as the political kingpin of the Luo community.
In a statement, Okello suggested that Babu’s political path would be easier if he worked with the Kenya Kwanza administration.
According to the analyst, Luo Nyanza appears to be increasingly warming up to Ruto’s leadership, making it politically risky for leaders from the region to oppose that trend.
Okello argued that building national influence in Kenyan politics often requires a solid ethnic or regional support base before expanding nationally.
He said leaders who ignore the political direction of their home regions risk weakening their own ambitions.
“If Babu Owino were to work with President William Ruto, he would have had it easier to consolidate Luo Nyanza behind him,” Okello said. “Luo Nyanza has aligned itself with Ruto; what benefit is it to go against your people?"
The analyst also referenced Lang’ata MP Jalang’o, suggesting that his alliance with the current administration could work to his advantage politically despite questions about his political experience.
According to Okello, leaders who read the political mood of their voters stand a better chance of securing long-term support.
He further argued that while some leaders advocate a shift away from ethnic-based politics, the reality on the ground still favors politicians who maintain strong backing from their communities.
Okello’s comments come at a time when conversations about succession politics in Luo Nyanza are gaining momentum. Raila Odinga has dominated the region’s political landscape for decades, and questions about who may eventually inherit his influence have fueled debates among analysts and supporters alike.
Babu Owino, known for his outspoken style and strong support among young voters, has increasingly been mentioned in those discussions.
However, his firm alignment with the opposition has placed him on a different political path from leaders who have recently moved closer to the government.
Whether Okello’s suggestion will resonate within Luo political circles remains unclear, but it reflects the broader debate about strategy, alliances, and the future direction of politics in the region ahead of the 2027 elections.